DDT (2,2 bis (p-chlorophenyl) 1,1,1,-trichloroethane) was first synthesized in 1874 by Seidler in Switzerland, however, its effectiveness as an insecticide was not known until about 1942. The active principle was first known as G.H.B. (Gesarol-Neccid Base): but in 1943 DDT was suggested as an abbreviation for Dichlore Diphenyl Trichloroethane (Kaaegie, 1946). In fact DDT, as a powerful insecticide is one of the developments made during World War II. The importance of DDT in the control of the common insect enemies of mankind, such as mosquitoes, flies, moths, and many agricultural insect pests is realized more day by day. Many studies have been conducted to determine the uses, toxisity and residual effectiveness of DDT. However, the nutritive value of DDT dusted feedstuffs has not been investigated heretofore.
During recent years, in the west, alfalfa seed and hay production has declined as a result of injuries caused by certain species of insects such as lygus bage and alfalfa weevil. DDT has been used successfully to control these insect pests. Because of this fact there is a need for more information on the chemical composition, digestibility and metabolisable energy content of DDT treated alfalfa hay
